The Case for American Idol's Dark Horse, Chris Richardson

By now everyone watching American Idol has picked a favorite. The choices are analyzed and debated on radio programs, television entertainment shows and Internet message boards. Melinda Doolittle has emerged as a front-runner, as has Lakisha Jones. Blake Lewis has been lauded by Simon Cowell has the best of the men, and Sanjaya Malakar has as many fans as detractors. Chris Richardson has been overlooked by many, and outright dismissed by others, but he has a chance to emerge as the dark horse in the competition.

Richardson has been derided for being a Justin Timberlake clone, and while there are tonal similarities in their voices, there are some differences. Timberlake's voice has a sensuality that some have criticized Richardson for lacking, but there is a tenderness in Richardson's voice that is not found in Timberlake's most recent recordings.

Chris Richardson has stretched himself in each week of the competition and has stayed squarely on theme each week. Compare his song choices to front runners Doolittle and Jones who received free passes on British Invasion Week. Jones' choice of "Diamonds are Forever" from the James Bond film, and Doolittle's choice of "As Long As He Needs Me," from the musical Oliver stretched the theme beyond recognition. Richardson has also worked hard to listen to suggestions from guest coaches and criticisms from the judges. When Peter Noone suggested that he stick to the melody instead of relying on melisma, he tried valiantly to follow the advice. As a result he gave his best performance of the year.